The right-hander, who was 2-2 with a 3.72 ERA in six starts last September, was named the Rays' fifth starter Wednesday. In four appearances, Davis is 1-1 with a 10.24 ERA.
So, you are the fifth pitcher in the rotation. How does it feel?
I'm excited, definitely, to get the opportunity to be a starter in the big leagues. I'm definitely glad to get that going.
Manager Joe Maddon said you might have felt some pressure to win a job. Did you?
A little anxious, you know, a little excited both ways, just want to get that opportunity to go out there and show them what I can do.
You ended 2009 as the fifth starter. Did you figure the job was automatically yours?
I've never taken it for granted. Up until last year, actually, was the first year I was guaranteed a spot in Triple A. I've always had the chance to make it in Double A or had the chance to make it in high A, come into the spring and do well and not make the team, so I never took it for granted.
You were in competition with Andy Sonnanstine. What would your reaction have been if you didn't earn the job?
I could have pitched better. I would have been disappointed. I don't want to go back to Durham. I'm really excited to go out there and pitch for the Rays.
How much has your six starts last September helped you this spring?
I think it helps me a lot. I got a chance to work with (catcher Dioner) Navarro a lot. We've gotten to know each other really well. I'm excited to get out there with (Kelly) Shoppach, too, and face a couple of hitters and get to know them a little bit, too. I'm a big fan of when I face guys I get to know them a little bit better and find their weaknesses. It's helped a lot mentally. I'm confident and ready to go out there and help them win ballgames.
Roger Mooney
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